Anthony Da Silva outlines bold vision for Mali’s Aigles

Mali’s national football team gets new direction under Anthony Da Silva

Exactly one month after officially signing his contract, Anthony Da Silva held his first press conference in Bamako on July 6, 2026, unveiling a clear vision for the Mali national football team, known as the Aigles. His approach blends ambition with structure, prioritizing identity, discipline, and consistent performance.

The new coach is determined to build a competitive squad that reflects Mali’s values while maintaining high standards. “My priority is to bring back pride to Mali’s football supporters. This journey won’t happen overnight, but we will progress methodically,” he stated, balancing realism with determination.

Central to Da Silva’s strategy is a well-defined selection process. Patriotism and discipline are non-negotiable, alongside strong performances and the right mindset. Yet, opportunity remains open to all eligible players—whether they play in Mali or abroad, at 17 or 35 years old—as long as they meet the established criteria.

A fresh playing style for the Aigles

On the pitch, Da Silva is pushing for a more proactive and possession-based approach. “I want my teams to control the game, keep the ball, and set the tempo,” he explained. “We must be the ones dictating play.” He also emphasized the need for greater effectiveness in the final third, a weakness he believes has cost the team in past competitions.

CAN 2027: The first real test

The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September will serve as the coach’s first major evaluation. Mali has been drawn in a challenging group alongside Cape Verde, a team that recently held powerhouse nations like Spain, Uruguay, and Argentina to draws, as well as Liberia and Rwanda. Success here is crucial to building momentum for the 2027 tournament itself.

To achieve this, Da Silva is prioritizing close collaboration with the Mali Football Federation and national technical staff. “This is a collective effort,” he emphasized. “Our guiding principles will be honesty, transparency, and relentless hard work.”